Police plea as fears grow for girl

Police have released a new picture of a 13-year-old girl who has been missing almost a week amid growing concerns for her welfare.

PUBLISHED: 05:18, Sun, Aug 11, 2013

Erika Kacicova was last seen on Monday afternoon when she left her family's home in Darnall, Sheffield (South Yorkshire Police/PA Wire) [PA]

Erika Kacicova was last seen on Monday afternoon when she left her family's home in Darnall, Sheffield, South Yorkshire.

Officers earlier issued a plea for the girl to get in touch after releasing on police bail a 22-year-old from Bradford, West Yorkshire, arrested on suspicion of her abduction.

Investigators are searching for Erika in Darnall, while "various lines of investigation" have led to police looking for her in Bradford. It is believed she could be staying with friends in the city.

Detective Inspector Helen Tate said: "We have had various sightings of Erika but as of yet, none have been confirmed.

"It is out of character for Erika to be away from home for so long. We are getting increasingly concerned for her welfare as time goes on. Erika is only 13, she is young and a normal teenager, who listens to music and spends time with her family and friends. We want her to return safe and well.

"We have around 50 police officers and staff working hard day and night in a bid to find her.

"We've received dozens of calls from members of the public, some in West Yorkshire and some to us here in Sheffield. Please keep these calls coming in. We will look into any information you can give us. Please contact us on 101 if you think you know where Erika is or may have any information to help find her.

"Erika has two younger siblings, a brother and a sister, they, along with her parents are distraught at her disappearance. Erika, if you are reading this, please let us know you are okay. You're not in any trouble; we just need to know you are safe and well. "

Erika is described as eastern European, 4ft 11in, slim, with long, dark brown straight hair and brown eyes. She was last seen on Monday at around 4pm on Poole Road wearing blue jeans, a pink polo-shirt and a silver-grey jacket.